In an effort to move people beyond a crisis and onto a more self-sustaining life, Community Action of Skagit County is working to align our internal programming to move families forward. How do we do that? By providing families with tools that will help them articulate and manifest their goals in the areas of employment education and financial staibilty.

The BFET program provides employment readiness opportunities to Basic Food (SNAP) recipients through a partnership between Community Action of Skagit County and Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS)

Not receiving Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) or other cash assistance

Age 16 or older

Physical and mentally able to work, or will be able to work within the next one year. (Ability to work is based on client statement and provider assessment. For example, a client with a pending Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability application is not eligible, but a client receiving temporary workers compensation could be eligible.)

The WorkFirst program is a partnership between the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) and Community Action of Skagit County. The goals of the WorkFirst Program are to help low-income families stabilize their lives, so they can go to work and take better care of their families.

Program Descriptions

Community Jobs /Career Jump Program:

The Community Jobs program is a full time (40 hours per week) WorkFirst activity that provides TANF participants with up to six (6) months of paid, temporary employment. Participation in the CJ program qualifies participating individuals for the advanced Earned Income Tax Credit.

Community Works Program:

The Community Works program is a one (1) to twelve (12) month unpaid internship that provides WorkFirst participants with work experience.

In a competitive job market, applicants need every advantage to be considered! In an eight week cycle, participants and facilitators work together on résumés, cover letters, addressing interview questions, and finding the right job for your skills!

Pre-registration is required, emailMegan Kostfor more information or to RSVP

Volunteers are needed to facilitate or co-facilitate classes and workshops, be available for drop-in resouce and computer labs, and/or work one-on-one with clients to identify next steps in reaching their goals. We recruit, train, and support community volunteers to work in large and small groups to be a peer and resource for those who need someone in thier corner as they work towardsFinancial Empowerment.

If you're up for a challenge, enjoy talking with others, have a postive attitude, and are willing to give some time to someone in your community, contact Ryan Davis or check out the Volunteer Centerfor more information.